It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.

Ursula K. Le Guin

Well, we’re coming to the end of Goal Week. I hope these posts have served as great tools you can use as you decide on your goals, whatever they may be. Having a good, smart, goal to work towards is a fantastic way to get and stay motivated. Seneca, the Stoic philosopher, wrote: “If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable,” meaning that if you don’t know where you’re going, you won’t really get anywhere. Having a clear direction is as beneficial for an individual as it is for teams. It helps you stay focused on your dreams.

As you work towards your goal, though, it’s also important to remember that ultimately the goal is just a tool. The goal is a way to help you as you pursue your dreams but do not become obsessed with it. This is where a good grounding in mindfulness is key. Set your intentions and your goals then let them go. Next week, we will talk about establishing a routine. Once you have a strong routine built to support your goal, you can relax and let your habits lead you toward your aim.

The goal is important but not as important as the journey and lessons you’ll learn along the way. Once you appreciate this, even the goals you’ve failed to achieve become valuable.